Hand-mounted eraser for usage on workboards

ABSTRACT

A hand-mounted eraser for usage upon chalkboards, blackboards, markerboards, and similar flat surfaces. In the preferred mode of the invention, an elongated eraser is attached to the hand by a ring member around the smallest finger and strap member around the wrist. The eraser is configured generally parallel to the smallest finger, running along the exterior thereof. This allows the user to comfortably write at a workboard while wearing the eraser. As such, the invention provides great convenience, as the user need not put down a writing instrument to pick up an eraser while using the workboard. An additional benefit of the present invention lies in the fact that the eraser prevents chalk, ink, or markings from a user&#39;s hand from being placed on additional objects, such as transparencies used in connection with overhead projectors.

[0001] This application relates to material disclosed in Provisional Patent Application No. 60/380,320, filed on Aug. 14, 2002 by the present Applicant.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] 1. Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention is a workboard tool. Specifically, the invention is a hand-mounted eraser for usage upon chalkboards, blackboards, markerboards, and similar flat surfaces.

[0004] 2. Description of the Prior Art

[0005] Numerous innovations for eraser devices have been provided in the prior art that are described as follows. Even though these innovations may be suitable for the specific individual purposes to which they address, they differ from the present invention as hereinafter contrasted. The following is a summary of those prior art patents most relevant to the invention at hand, as well a description outlining the differences between the features of the present invention and those of the prior art.

[0006] 1. U.S. Pat. No. 4,543,680, invented by Vlahos, entitled “Blackboard Eraser Handle”

[0007] The patent to Vlahos describes a detachable handle for use on erasers having absorbent material attached to a flat, rigid backing plate such as the common blackboard eraser. A “C” shaped rigid strap contains “C” shaped notches in the ends thereof. These notches are disposed to face one another and to engage opposite edges of the eraser backing plate. The notches are sized to frictionally retain the backing plate thereby providing a handle to control the eraser during use.

[0008] 2. U.S. Pat. No. 5,530,984, invented by Walker, entitled “Quick Wipe Eraser For Chalkboards”

[0009] In the patent to Walker, an eraser is disclosed. The eraser includes a frame formed of tubular components coupled together. The frame includes a first peripheral member having long parallel side edges, a short rear edge and a triangular shaped front edge. The side edges are about twice the length of the rear edge. Three cross-brace members including a front cross-brace member constitute the base of the triangle. Additional cross-brace members are at equally spaced locations on the interior faces of the side edges. A handle is formed of a rod extending upwardly from the central extent of the forward cross brace. The handle extends rearwardly at a right angle to and over the central cross brace member with a plastic grip member of an enlarged diameter with finger receiving recesses on its lower extent secured to the end of the handle remote from the frame. A flexible cover is secured over the lower surface of the frame and is essentially co-extensive therewith.

[0010] 3. U.S. Pat. No. 5,072,483, invented by Durand, entitled “Eraser”

[0011] The patent to Durand describes an eraser consisting of a body having an aperture. A cloth covering is mounted to a portion of the body. When a writing instrument is inserted in the aperture the writing instrument provides a handle by which the body may be manipulated.

[0012] 4. U.S. Design Pat. No. Des. 366,670, invented by Huh, entitled “Blackboard Eraser”

[0013] The design patent to Huh depicts an ornamental design for a blackboard eraser, as shown.

[0014] 5. U.S. Pat. No. 6,056,468, invented by Niewiadomski, entitled “Eraser for Whiteboard Marker”

[0015] The patent to Niewiadomski describes an eraser for erasing markings on a white board which has a body having a pair of arms for engaging a marker and a wiper blade connected to the body and extending therefrom to wipe along a surface of a whiteboard for removing dried ink thereon. The eraser alternatively includes different attachments as well as an embodiment where the wiper blade is made unitary with the marker. The eraser can have differing cross-sections including a longitudinal recess or hollow runner located between the arms and the wiper blade.

[0016] 6. U.S. Pat. No. 4,148,424, invented by Fortenberry, entitled “Holder For A Writing Instrument”

[0017] Fortenberry's holder for a writing instrument provides a band adapted to completely encircle the person's hand about the palm area. A portion of the band is formed into a loop to define a writing instrument receptacle adapted to hold a writing instrument. When the band is attached about the palm area and appropriately adjusted, the writing instrument receptacle will hold the instrument with its major axis generally in line with the plane defined by the person's palm, the band and receptacle being sufficiently flexible to permit the instrument to be turned somewhat and comfortably held in the normal writing position between the person's fingers. Preferably the band is elastic and adjustable to fit the palm of different size hands, and the loop is defined by a clip that permits tension in the band to be transmitted to the loop and its size thereby adjusted automatically upon being placed about the person's palm to securely hold a writing instrument. A preferred form of buckle for attaching together the end portions of the band also is disclosed, the buckle preferably being injection molded of plastic material as a flat, unitary article.

[0018] 7. U.S. Pat. No. 5,722,575, invented by Smith, entitled “Grip-Assisting Accessory”

[0019] In the patent to Smith, a grip-assisting accessory is provided which aids a person in holding and manipulating a hand-held utensil, such as a writing instrument, paintbrush, eating utensil, or toothbrush. The accessory includes a sleeve which fits snugly over the item to be gripped, such as a pen barrel or paintbrush handle. A strap is attached to and extends from the sleeve. The strap is wrappable around at least one finger held alongside the sleeve. The strap is securable to the sleeve to hold the item securely and comfortably to user's finger.

[0020] 8. U.S. Pat. No. 5,885,018, invented by Sato, entitled “Writing Tool With A Ring For Mounting On A Finger”

[0021] The patent to Sato describes a writing tool having a ring allowing the tool to be worn on a finger immediately ready for writing. The writing tool has a ring-shaped portion for receiving an index finger, a guide portion for guiding the tool during writing extending from the ring-shaped portion and a support for a writing instrument such as a pen or pencil extending outward from the end of the guide portion. A unique characteristic is the formation of the finger mounting ring at an oblique angle to guide portion to allow comfortable, proper positioning on the finger when writing.

[0022] 9. U.S. Pat. No. 5,868,509, invented by Crutcher, entitled “Holder For A Writing Instrument”

[0023] The patent to Crutcher describes a holder for a short pen or pencil to be worn on the upper (dorsal) side of the index finger while doing other work, and permitting writing without hunting for a writing instrument. Variations of flexible plastic and/or elastomeric one piece holders from extrusions or injection molded parts are disclosed as well as holders with Velcro straps. The sleeve holding the writing instrument may be parallel to the middle joint of the index finger or inclined to it, and may be adjusted with a thumb piece on the holder.

[0024] 10. U.S. Pat. No. 6,328,494, invented by Moxon, entitled “Ergonomic Tool Holder or Writing Tool With Means To Be Molded To Fit The User's Hand”

[0025] In the patent to Moxon, a tool holder or writing instrument is provided which includes a formable modeling compound material positioned around a flexible rod or tube which in a preferred embodiment is capable of holding an ink or other writing substance. The material is capable of conforming to the fingers and grip orientation of a user of the writing instrument to provide a comfortable, ergonomically correct writing instrument. Additionally, a portion of this writing instrument (e.g., the flexible tube) may be wrapped around at least one digit of the user's writing hand, e.g. the index finger, to provide additional support and comfort. One end of the tube can include means for removably attaching various hand tools such as scribes, knives, electrical contacts or the like.

[0026] The prior art patents noted above largely entail features such as: a blackboard eraser with a rigid strap for insertion of the entire hand (not worn while writing on the workboard); various workboard erasers enhanced to better collect chalk and the like; and pens, styluses, and other writing tools that are removably affixed to the hand.

[0027] To the contrary, the present invention is a workboard eraser designed to be worn by the user while writing at a workboard. The eraser is attached to the hand by a ring around the smallest finger and strap around the wrist, and is configured generally parallel to the smallest finger, running along the exterior thereof. As such, the device allows the user to comfortably and conveniently work at a black board, chalk board, marker board or similar surface while actually wearing the eraser.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0028] As noted, the present invention is a workboard tool. Specifically, the invention is a hand-mounted eraser for usage upon chalkboards, blackboards, markerboards, and similar flat surfaces.

[0029] In the preferred mode of the invention, an elongated eraser is attached to the hand by a ring member around the smallest finger and strap member around the wrist. The eraser is configured generally parallel to the smallest finger, running along the exterior thereof. This allows the user to comfortably write at a workboard while wearing the eraser. In alternate modes, the eraser may be located upon the back of the hand, or any other effective position. In total, the invention provides great convenience, as the user need not put down the writing instrument to pick up an eraser while using the workboard.

[0030] An additional benefit of the present invention lies in the fact that the eraser prevents chalk, ink, or markings from a user's hand from being placed on additional objects, such as transparencies used in connection with overhead projectors.

[0031] In light of the foregoing, it is generally an object of the present invention to provide a hand-mounted eraser, designed for user convenience.

[0032] It is also an object of the invention to provide an item for use in connection with chalk boards, black boards, marker boards, dry erase boards, and other flat surfaces.

[0033] It is also an object of the invention to provide a device that is lightweight and comfortable for the user to wear.

[0034] It is an additional object of the invention to provide an item that may be secured to the user's wrist by a means selected from the group consisting of hook and loop, at least one snap, and at least one buckle.

[0035] It is also an object of the invention to provide an item that is ergonomic in nature, able to be worn by the user comfortably for extended periods of time.

[0036] It is an additional object of the invention to provide an item that may be produced in a variety of sizes, such as to be effective for usage by people of all ages.

[0037] It is a further object of the invention to provide an item that is made in left-handed and right-handed versions, so as to be effective for usage by all persons.

[0038] It is a further object of the invention to provide an item that may be constructed of any of a variety of materials suitable to accomplish the purposes of the invention.

[0039] It is another object of the invention to provide an item that is constructed of inexpensive materials, resulting in reasonable prices for the consumer.

[0040] It is another object of the invention to provide an item that may be disposable in nature.

[0041] It is a further object of the invention to provide an item that protects the user's hand from overhead projectors and additional tools.

[0042] It is another object of the invention to provide an item that includes colors and indicia upon the surface thereof.

[0043] It is a further object of the invention to provide an item that may comprise a chalk holding means thereon, for additional user convenience.

[0044] Finally, it is an object of the present invention to provide an item that may bear indicia or decorative elements therein, in order to enhance the overall appearance of the instrument.

[0045] The novel features which are considered characteristic for the invention are set forth in the claims. The invention itself, both as to its construction and its method of operation, together with additional objects and advantages thereof, will be best understood from the following description of the embodiments when read and understood in connection with accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0046]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the palm of the user's hand, illustrating the preferred mode of the invention, wherein the eraser is affixed to the side of the hand via fastening means consisting of a finger ring and wrist strap. In alternate modes, the eraser may be affixed to other portions of the hand, and may use alternative fastening means, such as hook and loop, snaps, and/or buckles.

[0047]FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the side of the user's hand, illustrating the ease with which the user may utilize a writing instrument while wearing the hand-mounted eraser.

[0048]FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the side of the user's hand, illustrating the ergonomic form of the eraser portion against the side of the hand, and portion of the eraser that is likely to most engage the board surface.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0049] Referring to FIG. 1, which is a perspective view of the palm of the user's hand, illustrated is the preferred mode of the hand-mounted eraser (10). Specifically, the hand-mounted eraser for usage upon workboards (10) comprises an elongated eraser (12) attached to a user's hand by a fastening means. In this preferred mode, the fastening means comprises a ring member (18) affixed to the eraser at an interior edge thereof, at a first end (14) of the eraser. As shown, the ring member (18) is a securement means into which the user's smallest finger is inserted. However, it shall be understood that in an alternate mode the ring member (18) may be configured for insertion of a different finger, consistent with the objective of securing the eraser to the hand.

[0050] The fastening means further comprises a strap (20) affixed to a distal end (16) of the eraser. The strap (20) is adapted to be placed around the user's wrist, functioning to secure the eraser (12) in a position generally parallel to the smallest finger and running along the exterior of the side of the hand. The hand-mounted eraser may use one of various fastening means to secure the strap to the user, such as hook and loop assembly, at least one snap, and/or at least one buckle.

[0051] In all instances, the eraser (12) effectively affixes to the hand to allow the user to write upon a workboard in a comfortable manner while actually wearing the eraser. For the purposes of example, FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the side of the user's hand, illustrating the ease with which the user may utilize a writing instrument while wearing the hand-mounted eraser, as no interference with same occurs. As such, the device may be effectively used in connection with chalk boards, black boards, marker boards, dry erase boards, and other flat surfaces with which an eraser is ordinarily used.

[0052] Importantly, the eraser may also be ergonomically contoured to the shape of the hand, adding to user comfort over extended periods of time. For the purposes of example, FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the side of the user's hand, illustrating the ergonomic form of the eraser portion against the side of the hand, and portion of the eraser that is likely to engage the board surface most often. Moreover, the eraser may be of approximately the same width as the user's hand, so as to create a device that does not extend far beyond the hand and is not cumbersome for the user to wear.

[0053] It is important to note that the preferred mode of the device is inherently configured for both right handed and left handed users, such that only one embodiment of the invention need be manufactured to benefit a great quantity of consumers. This will both reduce manufacturing costs and allow several different persons to use the same product, for instance in a classroom setting. In addition, the device may be manufactured in a variety of sizes, such as in small, medium, and large sizes, to provide additional means to comfortably fit users of all ages.

[0054] The device also may be manufactured of at least one of a variety of materials, such as durable plastics and polymers, to provide a generally lightweight product that is inexpensive to manufacture and transport. Moreover, the device may also be designed to be disposable in nature, such as by being constructed of still lighter, less expensive materials, allowing the products to be discarded after an appropriate period of usage.

[0055] The eraser may also be of a size suitable to cover a portion of the back of the user's hand, which will function to allow the eraser to stay on the hand in a firm and secure manner even when the eraser is pressed into the board and moved thereon. The eraser may also be of a size suitable to cover a portion of the palm of the user's hand, for the purposes of additional stability. Furthermore, an extra piece of material may be added to the device to create a stronger, tighter fit of the eraser to the hand. Such will assist in preventing the eraser from rubbing off of the hand when the same is pressed upon the board in question.

[0056] Moreover, the eraser itself may decrease in width from the portion adjacent the user's wrist to the portion adjacent the user's smallest finger, so as to best correspond to the shape and size of the hand. This will provide a secure fit and slightly smaller device for user comfort. Furthermore, the eraser may extend to a length sufficient to cover all or part of the user's smallest finger. This may further function to allow the user to erase relatively small areas of the workboard with greater precision.

[0057] Another important aspect of the invention is that the device functions to prevent markings on the user's hand from being placed on additional objects. For example, the hand-mounted eraser will keep chalk, ink, and the like on the side of the user's hand from being placed on transparencies used in connection with overhead projectors. Clearly, without usage of the hand-mounted eraser, chalk or ink may appear on the side of the user's hand, which would likely interfere with images and information on the transparency when placed on the overhead projector.

[0058] In any mode of production, the device may further include colors and indicia upon the surface thereof, so as to assist in creating a functional product that is also aesthetically pleasing. This will appeal to children, as well as provide an opportunity for corporate advertising and the like, thus adding to the total value of the product.

[0059] In addition, in an enhanced mode, the device may comprise a means to hold a writing instrument thereon, for the purpose of user convenience. For instance, the hand-mounted eraser may comprise a small cylindrical sleeve in which to place a piece of chalk, marker, or similar instrument.

[0060] Finally, it should be noted that in alternate embodiments, the eraser may be affixed to other portions of the hand, if desired. For instance, the invention may be configured such that the eraser is affixed to the back of the user's hand or in an additional location. In such instances, the hand-mounted eraser would be consistent with all concepts and objectives set forth above, and may also comprise all other features and options described herein.

[0061] With regards to all descriptions and graphics, while the invention has been illustrated and described as embodied, it is not intended to be limited to the details shown, since it will be understood that various omissions, modifications, substitutions and changes in the forms and details of the device illustrated and in its operation can be made by those skilled in the art without departing in any way from the spirit of the invention.

[0062] Without further analysis, the foregoing will so fully reveal the gist of the present invention that others can readily adapt it for various applications without omitting features that, from the standpoint of prior art, constitute essential characteristics of the generic or specific aspects of this invention. What is claimed as new and desired to be protected by Letters Patent is set forth in the appended claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A hand-mounted eraser for usage upon workboards comprising: an elongated eraser attached to a user's hand by a fastening means, the fastening means comprising a ring member affixed to the eraser at an interior edge thereof, into which a user's finger is inserted, the fastening means further comprising a strap affixed to a distal end of the eraser, the strap adapted to be placed around the user's wrist, functioning to secure the eraser in a position generally parallel to the smallest finger and running along the exterior of the side of the hand, functioning to allow the user to write upon a workboard in a comfortable manner while wearing the hand-mounted eraser.
 2. The hand-mounted eraser for usage upon workboards as described in claim 1, wherein the device is configured for right handed and left handed users.
 3. The hand-mounted eraser for usage upon workboards as described in claim 1, wherein the device is disposable in nature.
 4. The hand-mounted eraser for usage upon workboards as described in claim 1, wherein the device prevents chalk, ink, and markings from the user's hand from being placed upon additional objects.
 5. The hand-mounted eraser for usage upon workboards as described in claim 1, wherein the device is used in connection with chalk boards, black boards, marker boards, dry erase boards, and other flat surfaces.
 6. The hand-mounted eraser for usage upon workboards as described in claim 1, wherein the device is manufactured in small, medium, and large sizes.
 7. The hand-mounted eraser for usage upon workboards as described in claim 1, wherein the device is manufactured of at least one of a variety of materials.
 8. The hand-mounted eraser for usage upon workboards as described in claim 1, wherein the device further includes colors and indicia upon the surface thereof.
 9. The hand-mounted eraser for usage upon workboards as described in claim 1, wherein the device further comprises a chalk holding means thereon.
 10. The hand-mounted eraser for usage upon workboards as described in claim 1, wherein the strap is secured to the user's wrist by a means selected from the group consisting of hook and loop, at least one snap, and at least one buckle.
 11. The hand-mounted eraser for usage upon workboards as described in claim 1, wherein the eraser is ergonomically contoured to the shape of the hand.
 12. The hand-mounted eraser for usage upon workboards as described in claim 1, wherein the eraser is of approximately the same width as the user's hand.
 13. The hand-mounted eraser for usage upon workboards as described in claim 1, wherein the eraser is of a length suitable to cover a portion of the back of the user's hand.
 14. The hand-mounted eraser for usage upon workboards as described in claim 1, wherein the eraser is of a length suitable to cover a portion of the palm of the user's hand.
 15. The hand-mounted eraser for usage upon workboards as described in claim 1, wherein the eraser decreases in width from the portion adjacent the user's wrist to the portion adjacent the user's smallest finger.
 16. The hand-mounted eraser for usage upon workboards as described in claim 1, wherein the hand-mounted eraser comprises an additional piece of material that functions to enhance securement of the eraser to the user's hand and prevent the eraser from slipping of of the user's hand during usage thereof.
 17. A hand-mounted eraser for usage upon workboards comprising: an elongated eraser attached to a user's hand by a previously-determined fastening means, functioning to allow the user to write upon a workboard in a comfortable manner while wearing the hand-mounted eraser.
 18. The hand-mounted eraser for usage upon workboards as described in claim 17, wherein the fastening means comprises a ring member affixed to the eraser at an interior edge thereof, into which a user's finger is inserted.
 19. The hand-mounted eraser for usage upon workboards as described in claim 17, wherein the fastening means comprises a strap affixed to a distal end of the eraser, the strap adapted to be placed around the user's wrist.
 20. A hand-mounted eraser for usage upon workboards comprising: an elongated eraser attached to a user's hand by a fastening means, the fastening means comprising a ring member affixed to the eraser at an interior edge thereof, into which a user's finger is inserted, the fastening means further comprising a strap affixed to a distal end of the eraser, the strap adapted to be placed around the user's wrist, functioning to secure the eraser in a position upon the back of the hand, functioning to allow the user to write upon a workboard in a comfortable manner while wearing the hand-mounted eraser. 